But with three twenty/20 games remaining in the tournament, Otago is still well placed to push for a title.
Coach Mark Bracewell, however, was less concerned with results than with the development of his young charges.
"These tournaments are all about development. So all I expect from these guys during the twenty/20 games is that they develop an appreciation of how to play it, because most of them wouldn't have played it before," Bracewell said.
"The level of cricket at this tournament is a step up, so I'm not sure how they will adapt. But it will be the same for some of the other teams as well."
That said, 17-year-old Southland Boys' High School pupil Jacob Duffy has already made his debut for the Otago senior side this summer. Duffy took three for 19 to help Otago defeat Northern Districts in an HRV Cup game last week.
Duffy's bowling partner, Jack Hunter, is another excellent prospect.
The 16-year-old Otago Boys' High School pupil was the tournament's leading wicket-taker before yesterday's round of games with 16 wickets at an average of 11.56.
"He has really impressed. He bowls right-arm medium pace and nips it about. He has one of those ... not a Malinga action, but it is similar where he sort of slingshots it. And he is a handful.
"He is deceptive; he hurries guys up and when they first come to the crease, they don't have a clue what he is doing.
"Jack and Jacob have been a real standout and a potent force."
Left-armer Marcus Frost has also been impressive with the ball but has picked up an injury.
Bracewell said his side had more talent with the ball than the bat but had shown some real character nonetheless. While there had not been any real standouts, Gregor Croudis had been consistent and plenty of others had contributed.
Otago plays Northern Districts today.
